Tooley Oaks of East Mims

An Affordable Pocket Neighborhood

Background

In the 1990s, Earlean Tooley, an East Mims pastor and schoolteacher, embarked on a mission fueled by compassion and a vision for positive change. With unwavering determination, she purchased four parcels of land, driven by the aspiration of building affordable housing in East Mims. Pastor Tooley’s foresight and commitment to serving her community laid the foundation for a transformative vision that can help to address Brevard County’s twin crises of affordable housing and homelessness.

Tragically, Pastor Tooley passed away in 2020, leaving behind a dream yet to be realized. However, her legacy did not fade with her passing. Her daughter Pastor Karen Tooley Curry, inheritor of her indomitable spirit, stepped forward to carry on her mother’s mission.

Driven by her passion for community service, Pastor Karen resigned from a Kennedy Space Center strategic planning and communications role and established Tooley Community Development Group (TooleyCDG), a non-profit 501c3 organization as a vehicle. Under her leadership, a new project, Tooley Oaks of East Mims is emerging as an exciting new affordable housing opportunity for not just the East Mims community but as a pivotal affordable housing project for all of North Brevard County.

Vision

Entering our fifth year providing services to the most vulnerable in our community, we have become keenly aware that the most pressing need is for affordable workforce housing. Thus, this year we embark on our most ambitious endeavor yet. With ownership of five parcels of land, our goal is not only compelling it is crystal clear: to deliver beautiful, affordable, and service-enhanced housing options for the community.

Tooley Oaks of East Mims proposes the construction of 10 apartment-sized, single-family rental homes ranging from 650 to 700 square feet, promoting efficient use of space while maintaining comfort and functionality. This design not only reduces environmental impact but also ensures affordability for residents.

While our foremost objective remains the provision of housing options for families with incomes ranging from very low to moderate, we are steadfast in our dedication to ensuring that the visual appeal and atmosphere of the development align with market-rate standards. This deliberate approach not only champions socioeconomic diversity but also enhances the overall allure, culminating in a project poised to serve as a benchmark for forthcoming market rate, single-family home developments in Mims.

Opportunities to Partner

TooleyCDG is seeking dedicated Cottage Champions to support the Tooley Oaks project in raising essential pre-development funding. In appreciation for their donation at their preferred level of sponsorship, these Champions for Affordable Housing will receive:

1. Exclusive Naming Rights: Each cottage, courtyard bench, courtyard plaque or paver will bear the name of your choice – whether it’s your business, family name, or individual name. A beautiful nameplate will be prominently displayed showcasing your generous contribution.

2. Prominent Recognition: Your sponsorship will be acknowledged in our promotional materials, including press releases, social media posts, website, and any other relevant marketing collateral. This will highlight your commitment to affordable housing and community development.
   
3. Invitation to Groundbreaking Ceremony: You will receive a special invitation to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the project, where you can witness firsthand the impact of your support.
   
4. Personalized Certificate of Appreciation: As a token of our gratitude, you will receive a personalized certificate recognizing your contribution as a Cottage Champion.
   
5. VIP Access to Project Updates: You will receive exclusive updates on the progress of the project, including construction milestones, community events, and opportunities for involvement.
   
6. Networking Opportunities: Connect with other like-minded sponsors and stakeholders who share your commitment to affordable housing and community development.

Your partnership as a Cottage Champion will play a vital role in bringing these much-needed homes to fruition, empowering our community with affordable housing solutions.

Contact us at cottagechamps@tooleycdg.org for more details or download a sponsorship package below.

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Affordability

Emphasizing affordability, the project will include U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) site-based Section 8 vouchers administered through the Housing Authority of Brevard County. Employing Section 8 vouchers not only assures affordability for the community but also provides a consistent cash flow for maintenance and upkeep which fosters a beautiful and sustainable living environment.

Location

The proposed Tooley Oaks of East Mims – Phase I development is strategically situated at 2617 Bethune Avenue, within the jurisdictional bounds of Brevard County, Florida. This prime location falls under the BCPAO Parcel number 21-35-17-00-40 (see blue circle marker below), boasting a lovely, wooded lot with mature oak and magnolia trees, breathtaking proximity to NASA rocket launches, and access to the beautiful Indian River.

Site Details: Spanning 1.56 acres, the development will not only eliminate the blighted existing building, but it will also consist of front porch style construction, that will foster a sense of community while providing privacy and individuality to residents. The community features will include beautiful architectural design on a quiet lot scattered with mature oaks and magnolia trees.

Timeline